Transportation in Rome
The River Tiber snakes its way south through the city centre, with the Centro Storico (historic centre) on the left bank and Vatican City standing proud on the right bank. The Centro Storico, in a loop of the Tiber and home to the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona and Piazza di Spagna, is partly pedestrian-only, and therefore most easily navigated on foot. It you do need to catch a bus, the main traffic hub lies on Piazza Venezia, further north, while the most convenient metro stations are Piazza di Spagna, Piazza del Popolo and Colosseo. West of the Centro Storico, on the west bank, lie the Vatican and Trastevere, backed by Gianicolo Hill. To the north is the extensive parkland of Villa Borghese, and to the east Termini train station.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Metro
Rome's underground metro network is somewhat limited due to subterranean archaeological remains which are unearthed each time construction workers begin extending the system. Unless you have a journey of more than three stops it is generally better to walk.
Taxi
Queue for a cab at one of the numerous orange taxi stops dispersed through the city centre rather than trying to flag down a taxi. Avoid the taxi touts that swarm around Termini station, charging extortionate fares. If your Italian is up to it, call a radio car on 06 3570.
Bus
Rome's buses are the most reliable method of getting across the city but can get hot and crowded. Certain lines, notably the number 64 from Termini Station to the Vatican, are renowned for pickpockets, so hang on to your valuables.
Foot
In general the most efficient way of getting around is on foot, at least across the Centro Storico. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes on the cobbled streets.
Tram
Smooth-running and efficient, although few in number, Rome's trams mainly serve suburban areas. The useful express service No 8 links the centre (departing from Largo Argentina) to Trastevere.
Rent your car
Drivers in Rome need to watch for cars in every direction, even with right of way, and keep dipped headlights on throughout the day. Only resident pass-holders can drive into the historic centre before 6pm.
Transportation Tips
The same tickets are valid on all city bus, tram and metro services and must be bought from stations, tobacconists or newspaper kiosks before boarding. For a single journey a ticket is valid for 75 minutes and includes travel on any number of buses and trams and one metro journey. Stamp your ticket in the yellow machine when you board. Alternatively, one-day and three-day passes are available and include travel on the mainline trains to the beach in Ostia.
